Moving to Sendai, Japan

"Sendai, known as the City of Trees, is the largest city in the Tohoku region of Japan and offers a balance of urban living and nature. The city is known for its friendly locals, safe environment, and high quality of life. The cost of living in Sendai is lower compared to Tokyo or Osaka, but still higher than in many Western countries. Japanese is the main language spoken in Sendai, and while some locals may speak English, it is beneficial to learn some basic Japanese phrases. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trains, and it's also bicycle-friendly. Sendai has a humid climate with hot summers and cold winters. It's also prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the city's emergency procedures. The city offers a variety of cuisines, with local specialties including gyutan (grilled beef tongue) and zunda mochi (sweet edamame paste). There are also numerous international restaurants and grocery stores for those missing food from home. Healthcare in Sendai is of a high standard, with both public and private hospitals available. However, it's recommended to have health insurance as medical costs can be high. Sendai is culturally rich, with many festivals, museums, and historical sites. The city is also home to several universities and has a vibrant student population. Renting an apartment in Sendai usually requires a guarantor, and it's common to pay a deposit and key money upfront. It's also worth noting that Japanese apartments tend to be smaller than Western ones. Finally, it's important to respect Japanese customs and etiquette, such as removing your shoes before entering a home, not tipping in restaurants, and avoiding loud conversations in public places," explained one expat living in Sendai, Japan.

"Finding a place to live in Sendai, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a shared apartment to a private house. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Sendai to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include Aoba Ward for its shopping and nightlife, and Miyagino Ward for its quieter, more residential feel. Once you have an idea of where you'd like to live, you can start searching for available properties. Websites like Suumo, Homes, and Athome are popular for house hunting in Japan, and they often have listings in English. You can also use a real estate agent to help you find a place. When you find a property you're interested in, you'll need to contact the landlord or real estate agent to arrange a viewing. If you decide to proceed with the rental, you'll typically need to provide several documents, including proof of income and a copy of your residence card. In Japan, it's common to pay a deposit and key money (a non-refundable payment to the landlord) when you sign the lease. You'll also need to pay the first month's rent upfront. Finally, once the lease is signed and the payments are made, you can move into your new home in Sendai. Remember to set up utilities like electricity, gas, and internet, as these are usually not included in the rent. Keep in mind that finding a place to live in Japan can be challenging if you don't speak Japanese, so you may want to consider hiring a translator or using a real estate agency that caters to foreigners," said one expat who made the move to Sendai.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Sendai, is usually a modern, compact space that is designed with a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary style. The living area is often minimalistic, with a low table and cushions for seating, reflecting the Japanese culture of simplicity and functionality. The kitchen is typically small but equipped with essential appliances like a refrigerator, stove, and microwave. The bedroom might feature a traditional Japanese futon that can be folded and stored away during the day to maximize space. Alternatively, it could have a western-style bed. The bathroom usually includes a high-tech toilet with multiple functions, a common feature in Japanese homes. Many apartments also have a small balcony for drying clothes, as dryers are not commonly used in Japan. The apartment may also include a genkan, a traditional Japanese entryway where shoes are removed before entering the home. Despite the compact size, these homes are designed to be efficient and comfortable, with storage solutions integrated into the design. They are often located in convenient areas close to public transportation, supermarkets, and restaurants. In terms of decor, expats often add personal touches to make the space feel like home, but overall, the design leans towards minimalism, in line with Japanese aesthetics. The homes are also typically well-insulated and equipped with air conditioning and heating systems to handle Sendai's cold winters and hot summers. While some expats may opt for larger, more western-style homes, these are less common and tend to be more expensive. Most expats in Sendai live in apartments or small houses that reflect the typical Japanese lifestyle," replied a member in Sendai.

"The average cost of housing in Sendai can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. For a single bedroom apartment in the city center, the monthly rent is typically around 50,000 to 70,000 Japanese Yen. If you're looking outside of the city center, the rent can drop to approximately 30,000 to 50,000 Japanese Yen per month. If you're interested in buying property, the average price per square meter in the city center is around 500,000 Japanese Yen, while outside of the city center it can be around 300,000 Japanese Yen per square meter. Please note that these are average prices and actual costs may vary," said one expat who made the move to Sendai.

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Sendai, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Sendai for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a home allows you to build equity over time and provides stability. However, it also comes with additional costs such as maintenance, insurance, and property taxes. On the other hand, if you're unsure about your long-term plans or if you're not ready for the financial commitment of owning a home, renting might be a better option. Renting offers more flexibility, as it's easier to move if your circumstances change. It also doesn't require a large upfront investment like buying a home does. It's also important to consider the real estate market in Sendai. If property values are rising, buying a home could be a good investment. However, if the market is stagnant or declining, renting might be a safer choice. Lastly, consider your lifestyle and preferences. Some people prefer the freedom and flexibility of renting, while others prefer the stability and potential financial benefits of owning a home. It's important to choose the option that best fits your needs and goals," said one expat in Sendai.

"When moving to Sendai, you should pack clothing suitable for all four seasons, as the city experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. This includes lightweight clothing for the hot and humid summers, as well as warm clothing for the cold winters. You should also pack a good quality raincoat and umbrella, as Sendai gets quite a bit of rain, especially during the typhoon season. In addition to clothing, you should also pack personal hygiene items, as some western brands may not be readily available in Japan. This includes items like deodorant, toothpaste, and any specific hair or skin care products you use regularly. If you take prescription medication, make sure to bring enough to last for your initial period in Japan, as well as a copy of your prescription. You should also consider packing a small selection of home comforts, such as your favorite snacks or books, to help you settle in. Remember to bring important documents, such as your passport, visa paperwork, and any other identification or paperwork you may need. Lastly, bring a power adapter for your electronic devices, as Japan uses a different plug type and voltage than many other countries," said one expat in Sendai.

"When visiting Sendai, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. Firstly, avoid wearing shoes inside homes, temples, and traditional restaurants. There will usually be a place to store your shoes at the entrance. When eating, never stick your chopsticks vertically into your rice, as this is a ritual performed at funerals. Also, avoid passing food from chopstick to chopstick, as this is another funeral tradition. In Japan, it's considered rude to blow your nose in public, so try to do this in private if necessary. Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as insulting, so avoid leaving extra money at restaurants or for taxi drivers. When visiting temples or shrines, follow the local customs for prayer and don't take photos in areas where it's prohibited. Avoid speaking loudly in public places, as it's considered rude and disruptive. Lastly, remember that personal space is highly valued in Japan, so avoid touching people, especially those you don't know well," explained one expat living in Sendai, Japan.